‘Society Girl: A Tale of Sex, Lies, and Scandal’ by Saba Imtiaz and Tooba Masood-Khan is a riveting exploration of one of Pakistan’s most enigmatic and sensational cases – the mysterious death of poet and former civil servant Mustafa Zaidi in 1970. Found lifeless in his Karachi home, with his unconscious lover, socialite Shahnaz Gul, in the adjacent room, Zaidi’s demise ignited a media frenzy and captivated the nation.
The authors, both seasoned journalists, delve deep into this perplexing case, meticulously reconstructing the events leading up to Zaidi’s death and the subsequent scandal that ensued. It’s a millennial style of reporting, taking us back in the dark days of 1970s. Their investigation spans over five years, during which they sift through court records, media reports, and personal testimonies to piece together a comprehensive narrative. This dedication to detail is evident in the book’s rich portrayal of Karachi’s high society in the 1970s – a world teeming with glamour, intrigue, and underlying tensions.
Imtiaz and Masood-Khan’s narrative prowess shines as they navigate the complex personalities at the heart of the story. Mustafa Zaidi emerges as a multifaceted individual – a talented poet whose personal struggles and tumultuous affair with Shahnaz Gul paint a portrait of a man torn between societal expectations and personal desires. Shahnaz, on the other hand, is depicted as a woman caught in the crosshairs of a patriarchal society, her character scrutinised and vilified by the media and public alike.
The book transcends the boundaries of a mere true-crime narrative. It serves as a poignant commentary on the societal norms and media ethics of the time, drawing parallels to contemporary issues. The authors highlight how the press sensationalised the scandal, often overshadowing pressing political events, such as the turmoil in East Pakistan leading to the creation of Bangladesh. This focus on scandal over substance is a reflection of the media’s role in shaping public perception – a theme that resonates even today.
Furthermore, ‘Society Girl’ delves into the gender dynamics at play, illustrating how Shahnaz Gul was subjected to a media trial that painted her as the ‘femme fatale,’ while Mustafa Zaidi was often portrayed with a more sympathetic lens. This dichotomy underscores the deep-seated patriarchal attitudes prevalent in society, where women are frequently judged more harshly for their personal choices.
The authors’ investigative rigor is complemented by their engaging storytelling. The book reads like a thriller, with each chapter unraveling new facets of the case, keeping readers hooked till the very end. Their ability to weave factual reporting with narrative flair makes ‘Society Girl’ not just an account of a historical event, but a reflection on human nature, societal hypocrisies, and the timeless allure of scandal.
Moreover, it deals with the issue of mental health as Mustafa Zaidi attempted suicide at one instance and used to threaten others about taking his own life if things wouldn’t go his way. Things really did go haywire for him as he was asked to resign from his job on corruption charges even though he was known widely for his integrity. His inability to meet his German wife Vera and his two children also contributed to his mental wellbeing. Therefore, the book touches upon the issue of mental health, which was somewhat a taboo in those times as compared to today’s day and age.
Conclusively, ‘Society Girl: A Tale of Sex, Lies, and Scandal’ is a compelling read that offers a window into a bygone era, while simultaneously prompting readers to reflect on enduring societal issues. Imtiaz and Masood-Khan have crafted a narrative that is as informative as it is engaging, making it a must-read for those interested in true crime, social history, and media studies.
The writer is our Editor-in-Chief.
